Hall of Fame
One of the top athletes in Wagner College history, Rich Salinardi turned in a brilliant four-year football career for the Seahawks. After starting as a quarterback,, Salinardi switched to defense and became known for his play in the defensive secondary, where he was a smart, physical player out of the free safety position. A driving force in Wagner’s undefeated season of 1967, the Green & White also captured the Lambert trophy as the East’s top team. In 1968, Salinardi was forced to return to the quarterback position, where his skills and leadership were needed. For the remainder of the season he played every down both offensively and defensively. Also a strong baseball player, Salinardi played Third base for Wagner and displayed the same type of intensity and ability as he did on the gridiron. Following graduation he has worked with the Special Olympics extensively in Staten Island.
